Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Domestically produced VANILLA

Doesn't that title sound better than homemade vanilla?

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Our family has been producing our own vanilla for years and recently it has came up in conversation with several people, so we thought that we would just post the link for others to be inspired by as well. Just click here to begin creating the best vanilla you have probably ever had. Hope you enjoy!

Just for fun . . .

Vanilla Facts

The vanilla bean is the cured dried fruit of the rare and exotic vanilla orchid (vanilla planifolia) - the only orchid that bears fruit.

Vanilla is the most labor intensive of all agricultural products. It is the second most expensive spice in the world, next to saffron.

The entire process of vanilla cultivation, pollination and harvesting is done by hand, without using machinery, chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

Vanilla workers, usually women and children who are quick with their hands, pollinate from 1,000 to 2,000 vanilla orchid flowers per day.

When comparing the flavor of vanilla extracts, don't taste it right out of the bottle, you'll get a strong taste associated with the alcohol. Instead, test it by putting a dash in a few ounces of whole (homogenized) milk and experience the difference.

Remember also that a prudent amount of vanilla extract adds flavor and a minimal amount of color to a dish, but too much may impart a bitter, unpleasant taste. Use sparingly for best results.